03 September 2025
If you are an early-career doctor, nurse, or allied health professional looking to build a career in research, the BSR Clinical Research Fellowship 2026 is designed for you. Running from January to April 2026, this 12-week online programme gives you the knowledge, confidence, and network to take the next step in rheumatology research.
Why apply for the BSR clinical research fellowship?
Research careers in rheumatology are rewarding but can feel hard to access. Many early career researchers cite lack of funding and mentorship as the biggest barriers. This fellowship helps bridge the gap by providing:
- PhD preparation – training in study design, statistics, ethics, and grant writing
- Expert mentorship – one-to-one guidance from senior academics including Professor James Galloway and Dr Marwan Bukhari
- Networking opportunities – the opportunity to connect with peers across the UK to build lasting collaborations
By the end of the programme, you will have developed a competitive research proposal and gained skills to strengthen applications for external fellowships or PhD-level study.
Programme structure
The clinical research fellowship runs for 12 weeks, with online sessions every Wednesday evening from 21 January to 22 April 2026. The course includes:
- 8 expert-led sessions covering methodology, funding, and ethics
- 4 peer learning sessions to refine your own research project
- final presentations at the BSR annual conference in Glasgow, where projects will be showcased and prizes awarded
The small cohort size (maximum 12 participants) ensures personalised support and interaction with faculty.
Who can apply?
Applications are welcome from early career rheumatology healthcare professionals across the UK, including doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals. We encourage diversity of background, geography, and professional role. No previous research experience is required – only enthusiasm, commitment, and time.
How to apply
- Applications open: 8 September 2025
- Applications close: 24 November 2025